Top welterweight contender Carlos Prates recently shared his thoughts on two major upcoming UFC matchups: the UFC 335 co-main event featuring Alex Pereira versus Sergei Pavlovich, and the UFC 334 main event between Ciryl Gane and Josh Hokit.
Alex Pereira experienced a tough loss in his heavyweight debut against Ciryl Gane, being knocked out in the second round. This has led many fans and MMA experts to question his place in the heavyweight division, suggesting he should consider returning to light heavyweight. Pereira himself has stated that if he loses his next fight, he plans to move back down to 205 pounds and anticipates an immediate title shot upon his return.
Carlos Prates, however, remains confident in Pereira’s ability to defeat the powerful Russian knockout artist Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335. Prates believes that Pereira is capable of becoming a three-division UFC champion. Speaking exclusively to Squawka, Prates said of Pereira vs. Pavlovich:
“Alex Pereira can become a three-division UFC champion, and I think he’ll knock Sergei Pavlovich out. He has vast experience and a strong presence, being a two-time UFC champion in different weight classes. He can do it. He’s now working on aspects like his power and weight class. I’m really looking forward to this fight, and I believe Pereira will knock Pavlovich out.”
At UFC 334, reigning heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane is set to defend his title for the first time against the unbeaten challenger Josh Hokit. Carlos Prates expressed his dislike for Hokit’s trash talk and doubts that the American can dethrone “Bon Gamin.” He added, “I don’t appreciate Josh Hokit’s trash talk. While I respect different ways of promoting fights, his approach isn’t for me. I don’t see him beating Ciryl Gane. I’m backing Gane to win this fight.”
Fan Take: This insight from Carlos Prates highlights the intense competition and evolving narratives in the UFC’s heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions. These upcoming fights could significantly impact the sport by either cementing legacies or shaking up the current championship landscape, making them essential battles for fight fans to watch.
Source: www.lowkickmma.com
